In 2017, Mexican industries dumped 230 million gallons of raw sewage into one of the most polluted rivers in California, the New River. The toxic waste equals roughly 350 Olympic size swimming pools, which hold about 660,000 gallons each. The new river begins in Mexico and runs about 40 miles North through Imperial Valley farmland until it reaches the Salton Sea, located approximately 25 miles southeast of Palm Springs. 

Although this crisis has been well-documented for decades, it continues to be put on the back burner and is getting progressively worse. Containment of the toxic waste is not possible, and all open areas, such as water, soil, and playgrounds are contaminated. The toxins have spread to the New River and waterways that are now beginning to pollute other rivers and beaches.

So, is this just a border problem? Children and adults along the border are developing cancer and asthma at alarming rates, and the only logical solution is to stay out of the water. However, the health hazard is now airborne thanks to the collection of this biohazard waste in the Salton Sea. The Salton Sea dries out from time to time, leaving a dust bowl. This toxic dust is picked up by the wind and scattered to surrounding areas.

Individuals from Mexico use the river to cross over the border into the United States. Border agents are unable to prevent illegal entries as they are not required to enter the river due to the unsafe health conditions. Entering the river would expose the agents to life-threatening toxins, including blood from slaughterhouses, illegal pesticides, and raw sewage. Border agents continue to report health issues such as blurry vision from being near the river.

So, this is just the City of Calexico’s problem, right?  No, not so fast...Californians should be aware that the toxic water has made its way to our coastline prompting the closure of several San Diego Beach areas. It is time for change, and Congressman Juan Vargas recognizes that. He has introduced a bill, H.R. 358, that will create a California New River Restoration program that could restore water in the New River. It is time to support this bill. With the passage of this bill, it is just the beginning of the possibilities that can happen for change.